Honda Prelude is Coming Back, Concept Shown in Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan—It’s official: the legendary Honda Prelude is coming back. As the Japanese automaker’s third product launched in North America, following the Civic and Accord, the Prelude was sold from 1979-2001 and made a lasting impression on Honda enthusiasts. The declining sports coupe segment forced the company to axe the model at the beginning of the new millennium, while the Accord Coupe and Civic Coupe survived long after that.

Today at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo, Honda unveiled a seemingly production-ready concept hinting at what the future Prelude might look like. It’s about the same size as a Nissan Z or Toyota GR Supra, yet with signature Honda styling and what we assume is a front-wheel drive layout.

Photo: Antoine Joubert

The fastback profile combines with muscular rear fenders, the side windows are reminiscent of those on the late Civic Coupe, and the taillights appear to be derived from the latest Accord.

Alas, Honda was pretty tight-lipped about the rest of the car. We know it’s electric, but are we talking about a powertrain similar to the Prologue’s, built on GM’s Ultium platform? Our best guess is that the Prelude will use Honda’s upcoming e:Architecture, especially considering the relatively short wheelbase.

Photo: Antoine Joubert

Whatever, the main thing is that Honda fans have a new sporty car to dream about other than the Civic Type R. And if you ask us, that could easily have been the new Integra instead of the five-door hatchback Acura decided to bring back last year.

Watch: 2023 Honda Civic Type R Overview

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